High tea's Mother's Day resurgence

TASTY TREATS: High tea is an ideal way to celebrate Mother's Day this year.

If ever proof was needed about the resurgence of the high tea, look no further than Mother's Day.

The combination of miniature sandwiches and scones smothered in cream and jam is easily the treat-of-choice for long-suffering mums this Sunday.

And to give you more time to shop for the accompanying gift, we have searched Auckland for the best options for you and your mum to celebrate her loveliness:

The Hotel High Tea - at Pullman AucklandOpposite the historic Albert Park, The Cafe at the Pullman provides a selection of cakes, scones and savoury treats prepared by a team of five-star chefs.

High Tea at The Cafe, Pullman Auckland costs $35 per person (half price for children under 12). Bookings required.

The Historic High Tea - at HighwicBe transported back to the 1800s at one of New Zealand's finest timber Gothic houses, with engaging service and the extra option of champagne.High Teat at Highwic from 2-4pm is $39 per person ($59 for champagne high tea). Bookings required.

The Rosy High Tea - at Stafford Villa, BirkenheadNamed the Rose Champagne Afternoon Tea, this is actually a chance to spend an afternoon sipping rich, aromatic rose hip tea while nibbling on tasty treats surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Mother's Day Rose Champagne High Tea at Stafford Villa, Birkenhead from 2.30 - 4.30pm is $40 per person. Bookings required.

The literary High Tea - at The LanghamPart of the Readers and Writers Festival, winning cooks and food writers come together to talk about their love of food and food as love the day before Mother's Day.

High Tea: The Generosity of Food at The Langham from 3.30 - 5pm on Saturday is $55 per person. Bookings required.

The Charity High Tea - at Heritage HotelIn support of Variety - The Children's Charity, this high tea will feature food, fashion and entertainment for all ages. Plus everyone gets a goodie bag and a glass of bubbles or juice on arrival.

High Tea for Variety at Heritage Hotel from 2.30 - 4.30pm is $65 per person ($30 for children under 12). Bookings required.

The Lunch, Not High Tea - at Alexandra Park RacewaySometimes tiny cakes aren't enough. This buffet menu will be set to the sound of a live jazz band, entertainment for the kids and prizes to be won on the day.

Mother's Day Lunch at Alexandra Park Raceway from 12 - 2.30pm is $45 per person ($20 for children under 12, and children under 5 free). Bookings required.

But of course, it's not all about food - there are other options when it comes to spoiling mum:

The Hotel Spa Day - at Skycity Grand HotelGive your mum the five-star treatment with a night at the inner city hotel, a special treat at East Day Spa and a bottle of champers on arrival.

The Musical Day - at Alberton, Mt AlbertSet in this unique family home, mums and their families will be serenaded by a collection of songs for mothers, written by mothers, about mothers.

Music for Mother's Day at Alberton, Mt Albert from 4pm is $22 per person. Bookings Required.

The Latino Day - Atico CocinaBilled as "guitar and congos, embraced in vocal harmony", this is sure to be the most rhythmic of tributes with everything from the bolero, bossa nova, cha cha cha, tango and salsa set to be covered at this Caribbean restaurant.

Live Latino Music Mother's Day at Atico Cocina, Drake St from 1 - 2.30pm. Bookings required.

The Classic Day - Academy CinemaIt's not often you get to see a true cinema classic on the big screen, but the nice folks at Academy Cinema are bringing My Fair Lady back to life with a brunch treat and glass of something naughty on hand as well.